On this day, 13 years ago, we rediscovered the value of life and love. We were forced to reconsider our priorities, to stand together, to comfort one another and to recall our purpose as Americans.
The years have passed, but for those of us who experienced it, that day is burned into our memories. That one single day and its aftermath changed the lives of many and of our nation as a whole. There is still no closure for the thousands of families who lost loved ones and no resolution for millions of Americans whose safety was violated and remains in question today. The latest news just reminds us of this truth – the threat of another attack is always there.
Those who want to put September 11, 2001 behind us fail to realize that it is more than history; it is part of our lives. So on this day, make time to remember that day, and be thankful for the love of family and friends, for work that challenges and rewards us, for those who have died protecting us and for the freedom that we too often take for granted.
Perhaps time cannot heal all wounds – we just learn to live with them. We may be saddened but we are also inspired to keep moving forward towards the promise and potential that is uniquely American.